Embedded Optical Fiber Checks for Composite Strength Member Defects
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Fiber-reinforced composite strength members, used in structural applications like overhead electrical cables, pose challenges in detecting defects such as fractures due to their low ductility and the complexity of existing monitoring methods, which require specialized equipment and are difficult to implement in outdoor environments.
Innovation Solution
A system and method for interrogating fiber-reinforced composite strength members using embedded optical fibers, where a light source transmits incoherent light through the fibers to detect defects, allowing for simple and cost-effective structural integrity assessment during manufacturing, installation, or post-installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional monitoring methods (OTDR) are used to detect defects in fiber-reinforced composite strength members, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases and ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces expensive, complex OTDR equipment with simple, inexpensive light sources (LEDs or lasers) that can be easily deployed. The system uses basic optical components rather than sophisticated monitoring equipment, making the solution cost-effective and easy to implement while maintaining adequate defect detection capability through the embedded optical fiber sensor.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the sensing function from the complex OTDR system and embeds it directly into the strength member via an integrated optical fiber. This separates the sensing element (optical fiber embedded in the composite) from the interrogation equipment, allowing simple light sources to be used externally while the fiber itself performs the complex sensing function internally.
2Measurement precision
If conventional monitoring methods (OTDR) are used to detect defects in fiber-reinforced composite strength members, then measurement precision is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces difficult-to-operate OTDR equipment with simple, portable light sources that can be easily handled in field conditions. The system uses basic optical components rather than sophisticated monitoring equipment, making the solution easy to deploy and operate while maintaining adequate defect detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The embedded optical fiber performs self-diagnosis by detecting changes in its own properties (transmission loss, scattering) when defects occur in the composite. The system monitors itself passively without requiring active intervention or complex external equipment, enabling easy operation through simple light transmission and detection.
3Weight of moving object
If fiber-reinforced composite materials are used for strength members, then weight is reduced and productivity is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to low ductility and difficulty in defect detection
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements defect detection capability during the manufacturing process itself, allowing defects to be identified and addressed before the strength member is put into service. The optical fiber is embedded during composite fabrication, enabling real-time monitoring of the manufacturing process and immediate detection of defects such as fiber breaks or delamination, ensuring reliability before deployment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous monitoring of the strength member's structural integrity through the embedded optical fiber. The system provides real-time feedback on the condition of the composite by detecting changes in light transmission properties when defects occur, enabling timely intervention and maintenance to ensure ongoing reliability of the lightweight structure.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables reliable detection of defects in fiber-reinforced composite strength members, ensuring structural integrity without the need for complex equipment, facilitating easier implementation in various environments and reducing costs.
Implementation Method 1
at least a first optical fiber embedded within the fiber-reinforced composite and extending from a first end of the fiber-reinforced composite to a second end of the fiber-reinforced composite
Implementation Method 2
transmitting light from the light transmitting device through the first optical fiber
Data Source
AI summary
Systems, methods and tools for the interrogation of fiber-reinforced composite strength members to assess the structural integrity of the strength members. The systems and methods utilize the transmission of light through optical fibers that are embedded along the length of the strength members. The inability to detect light through one or more of the optical fibers may be an indication that the structural integrity of the strength member is compromised. The systems and methods may be implemented without great difficulty and may be implemented at any time in the life cycle of the strength member, from production through installation. The systems and methods have particular applicability to bare overhead electrical cables that include a fiber-reinforced strength member.